Jain Bronze Tirthankara Shrine – India, likely 19th Century
13 July 2025
Description

Description that I have found : This is a beautifully detailed Jain bronze shrine depicting a seated Tirthankara (likely Mahavira), the spiritual teacher in Jainism, enclosed within a pierced architectural arch structure (torana). The figure is seated in a meditative pose (padmasana), with characteristic stylization: symmetrical composition, elongated earlobes, and a serene facial expression. Iconography & Features: • Main figure: The central Tirthankara figure bears the traditional yogic posture and a circular halo behind the head. • Multiple attendants and miniature figures adorn the architectural setting, indicating reverence and cosmic hierarchy. • Perforated arch (Torana): Richly decorated with elephants, lions, and celestial beings. These are common motifs symbolizing strength and divine guardianship in Jain temple art. • Canopy above the head, in the form of a parasol (chhatra), denotes honor and spiritual elevation. • Back inscription: Features Devnagari or Gujarati script, likely referencing the name of the Tirthankara, the patron, or a dedication date (not entirely legible from the image but worth expert reading). Material & Technique: • Cast using the lost-wax method (cire perdue). • Bronze with a rich dark brown patina, with traces of ritual handling and oxidation. • Intricate cut-out work and miniature modeling suggest skilled craftsmanship. Origin: • Western or Central India (Gujarat or Rajasthan likely). • Dating: 19th century, possibly earlier depending on patina and stylistic parallels. Condition: • Good overall with natural wear and minor oxidation consistent with age. • No visible breaks or repairs. • Back inscription slightly worn but still visible.

Dimensions

~H 13,5cm W 9 cm D 4,5cm

Acquired from
Inherited
For sale
Yes

A Mearto specialist is currently preparing the online appraisal of your item.


You will receive an email notification when your online appraisal is finished and ready to review. Our standard turnaround time is 48 hours, but unique items may take a bit longer to research.

If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out to us at [email protected].

Do you have a similar item and want to know how much it’s worth?

Communicate directly with a qualified specialist and get a fair market valuation of your item, typically in 48 hours or less.

Similar item appraisals

13 Jul, 2025
Partition/divider
Asian art
Estimate: No appraisals
13 Jul, 2025
Asian ivory vessel
Asian art
Estimate: No appraisals
13 Jul, 2025
Jain Bronze Tirth...
Asian art
Estimate: No appraisals
13 Jul, 2025
Antique asian scr...
Asian art
Estimate: No appraisals
13 Jul, 2025
Pair of very deta...
Asian art
Estimate: No appraisals
13 Jul, 2025
Prayer rug
Asian art
Estimate: No appraisals
12 Jul, 2025
Cloissane vase
Asian art
Estimate: No appraisals
12 Jul, 2025
Wooden laughing B...
Asian art
Estimate: No appraisals
12 Jul, 2025
The medicine Budd...
Asian art
Estimate: No appraisals